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The Los Angeles Angels which finished fifth in American League West in MLB 2024 season and were subjected to constant criticism have decided to rope in a veteran MLB player to rescue them for the next season and strengthen their side. They have reportedly signed a veteran right-handed pitcher Kyle Hendricks, known for his time with the Chicago Cubs. He was the star in their 2016 World Series win and is reportedly signing a one-year, $2.5 million contract with the LA Angels. While the team has yet to officially confirm the deal, Hendricks' addition brings valuable experience and stability to the Angels’ starting rotation.
About Angels roster
The 34 year old would join several recent additions to the Angels’ roster, including Jorge Soler, Scott Kingery, and Ryan Noda, providing further depth for the team. Notably, Hendricks was the last remaining player from the Cubs' 2016 World Series championship squad, which ended the franchise's 108-year title drought.
In the 2024 season, Hendricks posted a 5.92 ERA with the Cubs, though he showed significant improvement in the second half, lowering his ERA to 4.41 after being moved to the bullpen in mid-July. He ended the season on a high note, delivering a dominant performance with 7⅓ shutout innings in late September. Overall, Hendricks tallied 87 strikeouts over 130.2 innings. Despite his efforts, the Cubs finished with an 83-79 record, tying with the Arizona Diamondbacks for second place in their division and missing the playoffs.
Hendrick's legacy
Over the course of his career, Hendricks has a prolific 97-81 record with a 3.68 ERA, 1,259 strikeouts, and a WHIP of 1.18 across 1,580.1 innings pitched to his name . His postseason ERA stands at 3.12, highlighted by a stellar 1.42 ERA in the 2016 playoffs, underscoring his ability to perform in high-pressure situations. Known for his exceptional control and consistency, Hendricks has contributed six complete games and four shutouts during his career.
Hendricks was originally drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2011 and began his professional career with the Spokane Indians. He was traded to the Cubs in 2012 as part of the deal that sent Ryan Dempster to Texas. After a successful stint with the Cubs’ minor league affiliates, including winning the Cubs’ Minor League Pitcher of the Year award in 2013, Hendricks made his MLB debut in July 2014, following the Cubs' trades of Jeff Samardzija and Jason Hammel.
